The owner used the home as a store front for his computer business until about 2 years ago. 

I'm not greedy, but with many years spent repairing it I worry if buying homes would ruin my ability to use my credit for personal use if I ever needed to get a new car etc...Me and my wife have no car payments, no credit card debt, no store cards.

Worst part was that there was an antique rifle collection he was storing there that was ruined from water damage.Moral of the story:  Plan ahead, and ask ask ask people for advice.  

I went to the appliance parts store and replacing the handle was over $100.

Plenty of contractors up there, a few hardware stores but the major players like home depot are at the bottom of the hill.

I would check to see about the recent sales activity and divesting of the Palms Resort and Casino to get a better idea of what's in store for the property as a whole.

Do you see people storing clothes in HVAC closets?

The WholeFood  is one of the biggest WholeFood stores in the Bay Area, opened just 2 years ago.

Second, and less hazardous is going into Home Depots, Lowes or similar type stores, which have contractor desks and simply asking.  

I live with my two dogs and partner in a small town, like to bike and drink quality wines.